Career Path: Roboticist must obtain at least a bachelor’s degree in robotics, mechanical, electronics or software engineering from a college that is licensed by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). To pursue advanced positions, such as in teaching, research or management, a graduate degree or PhD is essential.

Best Cities for this job: Houston, Chicago, New York, and Atlanta. In California, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Santa Clara offer many employment opportunities.

Median Annual Income: National: $92,680 CA: $102,500

Future Growth: Although the projected growth for careers in robotics is slower than average, the development of technology and uses for robotics means robotics engineers may have more opportunities than other types of engineers.

From the field: “Seeing children’s reaction to these robotic characters is what makes this all important and real and worthwhile to me.” – Dr. Marek Michalowski

DidYou Know: Cybernetics professor Kevin Warwick calls himself the world’s first cyborg, with computer chips implanted in his left arm. He can remotely operate doors, an artificial hand, and an electronic wheelchair.